Submit the online application (look for an email confirmation) before the filing deadline.

Study the requirements to file stated on the job bulletin before you fill out the application.

All applicants will be notified whether their applications were accepted or not. If your application meets the requirements as stated on the Job Bulletin and your application is accepted for testing, you will be notified when and where to report for the next part of the examination.

You must have an email address to apply for jobs with the City of Long Beach. The City of Long Beach will only notify you by email.

The Examination Process

Taking a test to earn a job can be both a challenging and rewarding experience. Sometimes, anxiety and uncertainty affect how a person performs during any one of the several types of tests administered. However, here are some hints that will help you prepare for a Civil Service test:

Application Screening

Application Screening is a procedure used to qualify individuals for a test. During this process, requirements such as experience, training, or education of each applicant are reviewed. Make sure that you include required documents in your application packet and that you clearly state your qualifying background on your application form.

Written Examination

A written examination is used to test specific, technical knowledge related to a certain job. The test may consist of any combination of multiple choice, true/false, completion or identification items. Since many of these written examinations are job-specific, a careful review of the job announcement will provide you with an overview of the technical knowledge needed for the job.

Interviews

An interview is conducted by a panel of subject matter experts who evaluate a person\'s knowledge and skills, a persons" employment background, and other qualifying factors necessary for the job being sought. Therefore, it is important to arrange your thoughts and comments carefully and to know exactly what you are going to say. You do not need to bring anything with you unless directed by Civil Service staff. Do not bring a resume nor any work samples. Remember to dress appropriately for an interview.

Performance Tests

A performance test may be required for you to demonstrate a skill or ability which is essential for a job. For these types of examinations, you will need to train and practice to increase your dexterity, strength, skill or accuracy. The job announcement provides an indication of the types of performance activities which will be included in these types of tests. Dress appropriately.

For additional information on preparing to take examinations, visit your local library or bookstore for test preparation materials.

After The Examination

We will email your examination results to you, with further instructions. If you passed all parts of the examination, your name will be placed on an eligible list for at least 6 months and up to three years.

Candidates with the highest overall scores are scheduled first for final selection interviews in City departments with vacancies. Those with the highest scores have the best chance of getting hired. All candidates remaining on the eligible list move up the list whenever someone above them is hired.

Upon being selected, you must show authorization to work in the United States and pass a medical examination. You also serve a probationary period of 6 months (Police & Fire, 12 months) to evaluate your performance under actual working conditions. Once the probationary period has been satisfactorily completed, you gain permanent employee status and earn a pay increase.

As a City employee, you will enjoy excellent benefits, good promotional opportunities, and the satisfaction of providing essential services to the community.

If you would like specific career information or guidance on City jobs, call the Civil Service Department's Recruitment Division at (562) 570-6201 or email civilservice@longbeach.gov.

Updates

For some jobs, documents such as certificates, diplomas, licenses, or transcripts are required and must be complete at time of filing and received by the filing deadline. Documents must be submitted in PDF format only.